The drummer has speculated about replacing Nicko McBrain in Iron Maiden

The veteran who had been training for over 40 years confirmed his retirement from the stage this Saturday (7); the last show will be in Brazil

As previously reported, Nicko McBrain confirmed his departure from Iron Maiden after the show this Saturday (7) at Allianz Parque, in Sao Paulo. The information was confirmed through the band’s social networks.

There is no information yet regarding the replacement. In a statement, the band only revealed that they had already selected the musician and promised an announcement soon.

However, speculation – which should not be treated as information – indicates Joe Lazzaro. Grandson of the bassist and founder Steve Harristhe young drummer already has a long CV in music.

The Englishman has worked with musicians and groups such as Voodoo you are, Twin Atlantic, The last International, Vennart (Biffy Clyro). He also collaborated with Phil Moggsinger of UFO and one of Harris’ biggest idols, to the point where “Doctor Doctor”the band’s song, opens all Maiden shows.

There was even speculation that Lazarus was traveling with Iron Maiden to take over on drums if McBrain ran into trouble. However, the information is incorrect, as the young drummer’s tour dates with other projects clashed with the schedule of the heavy metal icons.

However, Joe is believed to be a likely name because Maiden always keeps his affairs among close people. It would be a risky move to bring into the group someone who is not used to dealing with Harris and his colleagues, which makes Lazarus someone with an ideal profile for the position.

It’s worth reinforcing: Joe is right speculated on the networks as a possible replacement e There is no official information regarding his entry. Check out some videos of Lazarus playing Iron Maiden songs below.

Official statements

In his text, Nicko McBrain thanks him for the 42 years of the group — he joined in 1982, in the position of Clive Burr – and says he will continue to be involved in the business overall. It just won’t be connected to the shows.

Read the 72-year-old drummer’s statement:

“Statement from Nicko McBrain: After much consideration, it is with sadness and joy that I announce my decision to step away from the routine of the touring lifestyle. Today, Saturday, December 7, in Sao Paulo, will be my last show with Iron Maiden. I wish the band much success from now on.

However, I will remain firmly part of the Iron Maiden family, working on a number of projects that my long-time managers, Rod Smallwood and Andy Taylor, have in mind for me. I will also be working on a variety of different personal projects and will focus on my existing businesses and ventures including The British Drum Company, Nicko McBrain’s Drum One, Titanium Tart and of course Rock-N-Roll Ribs!

What can I say? Touring with Maiden for the last 42 years has been an incredible journey! To my devoted fans, you were worth it and I love you! To my devoted wife Rebecca, you have made everything infinitely easier and I love you! To my sons, Justin and Nicholas, thank you for understanding the absences and I love you! To my friends who are always there for me, I love you! To my bandmates, you made a dream come true and I love you!

I look to the future with great enthusiasm and great hope! See you soon, God bless you all and of course Up the Irons! – Nicko”

The band also spoke out, in a message from the manager Smallwood Auction. Light:

“Statement by Rod Smallwood on behalf of Iron Maiden:

Nicko,

And we all love you too!!

Thank you for being an irrepressible force behind the Maiden drums for 42 years and my friend for even longer. I speak for the entire band when I say that we will miss you immensely!

Since Rock in Rio in 1985 we have had a special relationship with Brazil, so finishing a tour in front of 90 thousand fans here in Sao Paulo for two nights is poetic and you deserve all the honors that I’m sure these wonderful fans will give you. give you in this latest show.

Phantom looks forward to many more years of working with you on the projects you mentioned and I’m sure we can develop more special projects around the Maiden family and the fan club!

The band and I have a thousand great memories from the last 42 years, great shows, many platinum and gold records and awards, the love of the fans and an extra beer on many occasions! This bond is forever! And, as Steve Harris says, “Nicko is and will always be part of the Maiden family.”

Rod, Andy, Steve, Bruce, Davey, Adrian and Jan

PS Maiden always choose their men and our new drummer will be announced very soon.”

Nicko McBrain’s health and the future of Iron Maiden

It is known that Nicko McBrain has been suffering from health problems as of late. In early 2023 he suffered a mini-stroke and had to undergo a long recovery process. In interviews, the 72-year-old musician admits that he can no longer play like he used to and needs to adapt his performance.

It has not yet been announced who will fill Nicko’s position. The band resumes activities on the road in mid-2025, with the “Run for Your Lives” celebratory tour, celebrating its 50 years on the road.

Source: Terra

Earl

Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.